A tooth abscess is caused by an infection inside the tooth, the pulp. A pulp infection on the upper jaw is more likely to cause your face and head to ache and the pain may be very intense. Infections of the gum or impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to facial pain and headaches. These conditions require immediate dental attention to spare your tooth’s life and health.

Another type of infection can occur after a tooth extraction. The exposed site has potential for an infection which can even occur several days to more than a week after the date of extraction. The pain can sometimes travel to the rest of the face, head, and neck or will remain just on the local area. The exposed socket must be treated if an infection occurs or it will only worsen over time and may lead to other dental conditions.

Problems with the joint of the jaw are generalized as temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD). The symptoms of TMD include localized pain and pain in the neck, head, ears, and temple. Sometimes clicking noises can be heard when opening and closing the jaw. In more severe cases, the jaw may lock in one position.

Treatment of dental and jaw related headaches and pain should start with treatment of the pain’s source. If it is due to dental conditions or a joint problem, make an appointment with one of our cosmetic dentists in order to begin proper treatment. Without treatment, the condition and pain will only get worse and can lead to other severe problems.

Gingivitis is a big culprit for bleeding gums because your gums are inflamed and irritated. This can be treated by your dentist, so get it checked out immediately. Make sure to clean your teeth thoroughly so plaque build up does not occur, which can lead to more serious conditions such as periodontitis.

Brushing and flossing too hard can also cause bleeding gums. Use a softer bristled brush if this tends to happen to you. Harder bristles can irritate your gums and possibly cause them to swell. While flossing, make sure to gently glide the floss between your teeth and gum line. Do not shove the thread in with one motion. This can damage your gum tissue and cause more bleeding. Instead, use a zigzag motion to carefully and gently floss your teeth.

Other tips which can help prevent bleeding are: avoiding the use of tobacco, taking vitamins, and massaging your gums. Smoking dries the inside of your mouth and can make it vulnerable to sores or abrasions. Taking regular vitamins, especially vitamin K, can help prevent this condition and can maintain the strength of your gums. Massaging your gums gently while you brush can help strengthen them to prevent vulnerability.

If you wear dentures and suffer from bleeding gums, this could mean an improper fit. Your dentures can also cause sores in your mouth and on your gums. If this happens, talk with your dentist about getting new dentures or you might want to consider dental implants.

There are many other types of dental and gum infections that can cause bleeding. Make sure to go to your dentist at least twice a year to get a thorough examination of your teeth. This can help prevent other infections from occurring. No matter what causes your bleeding gums, talk with one of our dentists immediately. They will help you find out what the cause is and will treat your gums properly. Many other conditions can be prevented if you treat the initial problem first.

Not only can the piece of jewelry build up bacteria, it can chip and fracture your teeth. This is the most common dental problem caused by oral piercings. This can occur while talking, eating, chewing, and possibly sleeping. Depending on the severity of the fracture, a filling or root canal will have to be done to save the tooth.

A tongue piercing can lead to higher levels of bacteria in your body and heart. When the tongue is pierced, it is exposing the center of your tongue, allowing bacteria to travel through your bloodstream. This bacteria and plaque can travel to your heart and damage arteries and cell walls and could possibly cause other cardiovascular problems.

Other risks associated with oral piercings include infections, swelling, pain, scarring, tooth loss, gum damage, loss of taste, and mouth sores. If you are considering an oral piercing, make sure you are committed to good oral hygiene first. Taking proper care of the piercing area and the jewelry will decrease your chances of infection. If possible, remove the jewelry while sleeping and eating to reduce the risk of a chipped or fractured tooth.